Our immune systems can help protect us from getting sick – and promote healing when we are sick. But they need quality fuel to work properly. Milk is a staple food many of us already have in our fridges as a handy ingredient in coffee, smoothies, baking and so much more, as well as a drink by itself. It’s also something dietitians refer to as “nutrient dense,” meaning it gives you a lot of nutrients for relatively few calories.

The holiday season is synonymous with indulgent feasts and delightful gatherings. However, it's also a time when food waste tends to skyrocket. Every calendar year in the United States alone, an estimated 30%-40% of the food supply is wasted, which equates to roughly 119 billion pounds of food. During the holidays, this issue is intensified because we tend to prepare too much food for our loved ones to enjoy.

Today’s schools are embracing food trends like sustainability, farm-to-table and scratch-cooking to meet the growing demands of Gen Z foodie-approved meals and snacks. On top of that, the nutrition found in a school meal is often better quality and more well-rounded than a typical meal from your favorite restaurant. Surprised? Keep reading for more ways schools are serving up Ws.

In honor of October’s National Farm to School Month and National School Lunch Week (October 9-13), let's dive into the importance of school meals as a way to nurture our children’s health and academic achievements. 

Let’s be real: Whole-fat milk, cheese and yogurt taste better than the low-fat versions because they tend to be creamier and more satisfying. Yet many have thought that low-fat dairy is healthier for us – especially for our hearts.

One of the most important factors in a child’s development and success is nutrition. Unfortunately, many students start their day without the essential fuel needed for them to thrive. The availability of a healthy breakfast each day poses an obstacle for too many families. Fortunately, the School Breakfast Program fills this void for millions of children each school day.

Does your child go to a JeffCo public school?

See Jefferson County programs